A condition in a turbine engine axial-flow compressor in which the angle of attack of one or more blades becomes excessive and the smooth airflow through the compressor is disrupted.

When only a few blades stall, the effect is minimal and is noticed by a fluttering or rumbling sound. When the entire compressor disk stalls, the effect can be a serious slowing down of the air through the engine. This can result in a loud explosive noise with a resulting RPM fluctuation and a serious increase in exhaust gas temperature. A compressor stall can occur if the airflow through the engine is restricted while the compressor RPM is high.